I am incredibly excited to share this Bacon Garlic Rice recipe, developed in partnership with Princess Cruises. As always, all opinions, culinary creations, and photographs are entirely my own.
Life often throws delightful surprises our way, and sometimes, the most unexpected culinary gems emerge from the simplest necessities. Such was the case with this Bacon Garlic Rice. With a Western Caribbean cruise on the horizon for my husband and me, leaving our independent 20-year-old in charge of the homestead (which includes a menagerie of critters and a rotating cast of his younger brothers), I faced the familiar pre-travel dilemma: a refrigerator full of “odds and ends” that desperately needed to be utilized. I knew that if these forgotten vegetables and ingredients were left to their own devices, they might just stage a protest in the form of “produce soup.”
So, with a pound of bacon sizzling in the pan – because in a house teeming with five perpetually hungry teenage boys, cooking anything less is a cruel joke – I began to formulate a rough plan. I thinly sliced a fistful of vibrant green onions and meticulously minced several cloves of fresh garlic, their aromatic promise filling the kitchen. The goal was to transform these disparate ingredients into something truly satisfying, a dish that would keep my boys well-fed and happy while we embarked on our adventure.
The transformation began simply: a few tablespoons of fragrant bacon fat, infused with the golden essence of sautéed garlic, created an irresistible base. It didn’t take long for the kitchen to be enveloped in a wonderfully savory aroma. Next, the rice joined the party, followed by just the right amount of water and a lid to seal in the magic. In what felt like no time at all, fluffy, perfectly cooked grains of rice emerged. Finally, the crispy bacon and freshly sliced green onions were tossed in, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It was effortless, yet the result was nothing short of spectacular: a brand-new family-favorite side dish was born.
Discover the Irresistible Charm of Bacon Garlic Rice
This isn’t just any rice dish; it’s an experience. Imagine tender grains of basmati rice, each bursting with the savory richness of crispy bacon, the warm depth of fried garlic, and the bright, fresh kick of green onion. It delivers all the incredible umami of classic fried rice, but without the extensive effort often associated with it. We affectionately call it “Bacon Garlic Un-Fried Rice” because it skips the extra steps while maximizing flavor.
The versatility of Bacon Garlic Rice is truly remarkable. While it’s an absolutely phenomenal accompaniment to grilled chicken, succulent fish, juicy beef, or tender pork, its uses extend far beyond a simple side. Consider serving it as a hearty base for a comforting beef stew, or incorporate it as a delightful grain element in a vibrant green salad. And for those moments when midnight cravings strike, trust me, a spoonful (or three) straight from the fridge is an absolute revelation. Its robust flavor profile and satisfying texture make it a dish you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again, morning, noon, or night.
A Culinary Journey Inspired by Adventure: Our Princess Cruise Experience
The Bacon Garlic Rice was such an immediate and resounding success that what began as a clever way to clear out the refrigerator quickly transformed into a staple. I found myself purposefully shopping for ingredients to make it again the very next night, and then in generous batches to ensure my sons were well-fed during our absence. This simple dish became our peace of mind, allowing my husband and I to fully immerse ourselves in the pure relaxation and adventure of our Western Caribbean Cruise with Princess Cruises. Knowing they had a delicious and satisfying meal waiting for them made leaving a little easier. Before perfecting this recipe, I admit, I felt a pang of guilt that they couldn’t join us. But with ample Bacon Garlic Rice in the refrigerator, that worry melted away.
While our boys enjoyed their flavorful meals at home, my husband and I indulged in the serene pleasures of the open sea. We spent our days engrossed in books in the ship’s quiet nooks, invigorated by workouts with breathtaking ocean views, and, of course, savoring delightful desserts with every breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From walking on the ocean floor in Grand Cayman to dune-buggying through the scenic landscapes of Mexico, every moment was an unforgettable escape. Princess Cruises truly delivers an unparalleled experience, blending thrilling excursions with moments of tranquil luxury. It was a week of pure bliss, and rest assured, the boys were perfectly content, and so were we.
Why Bacon Garlic Rice Will Become Your Next Obsession
Even after our incredible cruise, Bacon Garlic Rice remains a beloved fixture in our culinary rotation. Its appeal hasn’t waned in the slightest; in fact, we expect it to be a regular feature on our dinner table for the foreseeable future. We even discovered that topping a generous serving with a perfectly fried egg elevates it from a fantastic side dish to an admirable, satisfying main course. The creamy yolk mingling with the savory rice and crispy bacon creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply divine. This dish proves that simple ingredients, thoughtfully prepared, can lead to extraordinary results.
It’s genuinely that good – a dish that somehow manages to be both comforting and exciting. I truly cannot emphasize enough the depth and perfection of the flavors found in this Bacon Garlic Rice. My strongest recommendation is simply this: you absolutely must try it. Each time I prepare it now, the incredible aroma and taste transport me back to the unforgettable memories of my Princess Cruise, blending the joy of travel with the pleasure of a homemade meal. It’s a sensory reminder of happiness.
Seriously, please make this recipe. You will be so incredibly glad you did! And while you’re planning your next culinary adventure, why not consider booking yourself a rejuvenating 7-Day Caribbean Cruise with Princess Cruises? Between the undeniable deliciousness of Bacon Garlic Rice and the sheer delight of a Caribbean Cruise, a world of happiness and unforgettable experiences awaits you on the horizon. I mean that with all sincerity!
Bacon Garlic Rice: Instant Pot and Stovetop Recipe
For me, the Instant Pot is a game-changer when making Bacon Garlic Rice. It eliminates all the guesswork, ensuring perfectly cooked rice with an ideal texture every single time, especially with basmati rice. However, if you prefer traditional methods or don’t own an Instant Pot, this delightful dish can certainly be made on the stovetop with equally delicious results. I’ve included comprehensive instructions for both methods in the printable recipe below, making it accessible for every home cook.
Choosing the right rice is crucial for the success of this recipe. I highly recommend using Basmati rice for our Bacon Garlic Rice because it cooks up into beautifully long, separate grains that remain fluffy and distinct, never clumpy. This is essential for achieving the desired texture and allowing the bacon and garlic flavors to truly shine. **A crucial tip: do not use instant or quick-cooking rice.** These varieties do not yield the same quality or texture and will not do this recipe justice. If you opt for the stovetop method, simply follow the initial steps for cooking bacon and garlic, then add your rinsed basmati rice and follow the water-to-rice ratio and cooking instructions provided on your specific Basmati rice package. Once it’s done, simply fold in the crispy bacon and vibrant green onions.
For an extra touch of visual appeal and fresh flavor, I always reserve a couple of tablespoons of the green parts of the sliced green onions and some of the chopped crispy bacon. These are perfect for garnishing the top of the Bacon Garlic Rice just before serving. While not strictly necessary for flavor, this little flourish truly enhances the presentation, making your dish look as enticing as it tastes!
Recipes to Pair with Your Bacon Garlic Rice
If you’re already a fan of our Bacon Garlic Rice, you’ll likely love these other flavorful creations. They make excellent companions to this versatile rice dish or stand wonderfully on their own:
- Flavorful Grilled Chicken Breasts with Herbs and Lemon
- Sweet and Savory Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
- Vibrant Grilled Fajita Vegetable Skewers
- Indulgent Grilled Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
- Zesty Chimichurri Grilled Meatballs
And don’t let any leftover Bacon Garlic Rice go to waste! It’s an excellent addition to this superb Easy Rice and Cheese Souffle. You can even use your Instant Pot for unexpected delights, like making a delicious Instant Pot Apple Crisp!
Essential Kitchen Tools for Perfect Bacon Garlic Rice
- Reliable Half Sheet Pan
- Sturdy Kitchen Tongs
- Durable Cutting Board
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
- Versatile Instant Pot
Bacon Garlic Rice {Instant Pot and Stove Top Instructions}
By Rebecca Lindamood
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Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
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Bacon Garlic Rice; tender grains of basmati rice bursting with bacon, fried garlic, and fresh green onion. It’s a flavour explosion that is great with grilled chicken, fish, beef, or pork, or nibbled straight from the fridge at midnight.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked basmati rice
- 8 slices thick cut bacon
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 3 green onions, trimmed of roots
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 1/2 cups water (or more, as instructed on Basmati Rice package if using the stove top instructions below)
Instructions
- Place the basmati rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse until the water runs clear. Set aside.
Instant Pot Instructions (Preferred Method)
- Set the Instant Pot to “Saute”. Stack the bacon and cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices. Add the bacon to the Instant Pot and stir, sauteeing until the bacon is crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel lined plate.
- Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan. You can measure or eyeball this, as your fancy moves you. It doesn’t need to be terribly precise, just a ballpark estimate.
- Keeping the Instant Pot on “Saute”, add the minced garlic to the pan and stir to cook until fragrant and beginning to brown around the edges, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the rice and stir, then pour in the water and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan.
- Turn off the Instant Pot, fix the lid in place, turning the steam release knob to “Sealing”, then activate the “Rice” setting, or manually set it to low pressure for 12 minutes.
- When the cycle is complete, use a wooden spoon to carefully vent the steam. Open the Instant Pot lid, sprinkle the crispy bacon and sliced green onions over the top. Use a rice paddle, fork, or wooden spoon to fluff the rice while tossing in the onions and bacon.
- This can be served immediately, hot or warm. Leftovers keep well, tightly covered, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Stove Top Instructions
- Place a medium saucepan that has a tight fitting lid over low heat on your stove top. Stack the bacon and cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices. Add the bacon to the saucepan and stir, raising the heat to medium, sauteeing until the bacon is crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel lined plate.
- Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan. You can measure or eyeball this, as your fancy moves you. It doesn’t need to be terribly precise, just a ballpark estimate.
- Keep your saucepan over medium heat and add the minced garlic to the pan and stir to cook until fragrant and beginning to brown around the edges, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the rice and stir, then pour in the amount of water specified for 2 cups of dry rice on your rice package and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan.
- Put the lid on the pan and cook for the length of time specified by your rice package.
- When the rice is done, sprinkle the crispy bacon and sliced green onions over the top. Use a rice paddle, fork, or wooden spoon to fluff the rice while tossing in the onions and bacon.
- This can be served immediately, hot or warm. Leftovers keep well, tightly covered, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 258 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 19 mg
- Sodium: 429 mg
- Potassium: 116 mg
- Vitamin A: 45 IU
- Vitamin C: 1.2 mg
- Calcium: 20 mg
- Iron: 0.5 mg
Nutritional information is an estimate and provided to you as a courtesy. You should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe using your preferred nutrition calculator.
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